Water shortages are no joke and neither are droughts. All of us conservation junkies know these facts. And while we all want to save water, sometimes even the most informed water-saving warriors make water usage mistakes by overlooking some of these ways to save water.

We’ve rounded up a few ways to save water you can consult if you ever find yourself wondering, “should I water my plants in the afternoon or morning?” (Hint: NOT the afternoon.)

A few handy rules around the house to save water

Fix that leaky sink already. According to EPA, the average home’s leaks account for more than 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year. While you’re thinking green in your home, consider using your laundry’s greywater to water your garden. (Just make certain you’re using non-toxic, biodegradable soap.) For information about greywater reuse, consult the Greywater Action website.

A few outdoor changes to save water

Make sure you’ve added compost and mulch to your soil. Both compost and mulch can help keep moisture in your soil, and will also keep the soil rich and healthy. Want to make a landscaping change? Whatever you do, don’t plant a grass lawn. Grass requires an insane amount of water. Instead, plant less water-intensive plants and consider planting native-plant gardens. Sunset.com has a great piece that features 21 lawn-free yards that don’t require a lot of water and are easy to care for.

And if you must water, make sure your sprinkler is not watering the street or sidewalk. Also: Consider using sprinklers that are lower to the ground, as high-arching sprinklers tend to not be as efficient (water gets lost to evaporation, or wind).

If you want to plant something, try and wait until it gets cooler and consider planting a fall garden. Keeping those new plants alive in the summer heat is very difficult. Also: Make sure you water in the morning or evening. If you water in the afternoon, a lot of moisture evaporates.